Into what branches does the superior laryngeal nerve divide?

The superior laryngeal nerve branches into two distinct parts: the internal branch and the external branch. The internal branch is responsible for providing sensory innervation above the vocal cords, allowing for the sensation in the laryngeal mucosa, while the external branch primarily innervates the cricothyroid muscle, playing a crucial role in modulating tension on the vocal cords during phonation.

Understanding the anatomy and function of these branches is key in surgical procedures involving the neck, as inadvertent injury to the superior laryngeal nerve can result in changes in voice quality and difficulties with phonation due to impaired muscle function and loss of sensory feedback.